Broadchurch actress Julie Hesmondhalgh has become patron of Dorset Rape Crisis Support Centre following her depiction of a rape victim in the ITV drama.

She made the announcement at the Dorset Rape Crisis charity screening of the show's final episode in Bridport.

The team at Dorset Rape Crisis advised the programme producers in the making of the final Broadchurch series.

Helen Stevens, the charity’s service manager, said: “The staff, trustees and volunteers are all absolutely delighted at this news. It has been a real privilege working with Chris Chibnall and the team in the making of this final series of Broadchurch and we are very excited to have Julie as our first patron.”

Hesmondhalgh said she was proud to have ‘given a voice’ to rape victims in the eight-part crime serial and praised the ‘incredible, important, essential’ work of Dorset Rape Crisis.

Dorset Rape Crisis support anyone in Dorset who has experienced any form of sexual abuse, assault or rape. For more information about the specialist services offered please contact Helen Stevens on 01202 308840.